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Dental Care

Proper dental care is very important for your pet’s health. Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common conditions seen by veterinarians. When plaque and tarter build up on your pet’s teeth it can cause some health issues, including heart, liver and kidney diseases.

Signs of Poor Oral Health:

• Bad breath
• Sensitive around the mouth area
• Pawing at the mouth
• Difficulty eating and chewing food
• Loss of appetite
• Bleeding from the mouth area

If you notice any of the above signs, your pet may need a dental cleaning. We will first need to perform an oral exam on your pet to determine if your pet needs a dental cleaning. This procedure does require your pet to be under anesthesia. Before being put under anesthesia, we may require a blood test to be performed that may uncover some underlying issues. Your pet will also need to start a round of antibiotics prior to a dental cleaning. When the teeth are cleaned, or extractions are done, harmful bacteria can be released into the bloodstream.

Even though professional cleaning may still be required, there are steps you can take at home to help reduce the severity of the dental disease.

• Brush your pet’s’ teeth (it is important to use a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for pets)
• Use dental chews or an oral rinse
• Diet change